Muslims
generally break their fast by eating dates. Prophet Muhammad
(Pbuh) is reported to have said: "if anyone of you
is fasting, let him break his fast with dates. In case
he does not have them, then with water. Verily water is
a purifier."

The
Prophet used to break his fast by eating some dates before
offering Maghrib prayer, and if ripe dates were not available,
he used to substitute them with some dried grapes. When
they too were not available, he used to have a few sips
of water, according to some reports. Modern science has
proved that dates are part of a healthy diet. They contain
sugar, fat and proteins, as well as important vitamins.
Hence the great importance attached to them by the Prophet.

Dates
are also rich in natural fibres. Modern medicine has shown
that they are effective in preventing abdominal cancer.
They also surpass other fruits in the sheer variety of
their constituents. They contain oil, calcium, sulphur,
iron, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, copper and magnesium.
In other words, one date is a minimum of a balanced and
healthy diet. Arabs usually combine dates with milk and
yogurt or bread, butter and fish. This combination indeed
makes a self-sufficient and tasty diet for both mind and
body. Dates and date palms have been mentioned in the
Holy Qur'an 20 times, thus showing their importance. The
Prophet likened a good Muslim to the date palm, saying,
"Among trees, there is a tree like a Muslim. Its
leaves do not fall."

Sayyidah
Mariam (the Virgin Mary) mother of Jesus (Pbuh) had dates
as her food when she felt labour pains and during confinement.
They are definitely the "crown of sweets," and
ideal food which is easy to digest, and within half an
hour of taking it, the tired body regains a renewed vigour.
The reason for this is that a shortage of sugar in the
blood is the main factor that makes people feel hungry
and not an empty stomach as is often assumed. When the
body absorbs the nutritional essence of a few dates, the
feeling of hunger becomes appeased. When one breaking
the fast with dates takes some other food afterwards,
he cannot eat much. It would seem that breaking the fast
with dates then helps one avoid excessive eating.

Experiments
have also shown that dates contain some stimulants that
strengthen the muscles of the uterus in the last months
of pregnancy. This helps the dilation of the uterus at
the time of delivery on one hand and reduces the bleeding
after delivery on the other. Dieticians consider dates
as the best food for women in confinement and those who
are breast-feeding. This is because dates contain elements
that assist in alleviating depression in mothers and enriching
the breast-milk with all the elements needed to make the
child healthy and resistant to disease. The Prophet (Pbuh)
has emphasized the importance of dates and their effectiveness
in the growth of the fetus. He has also recommended they
be given to women. Modern dietary institute now recommend
dates to be given to children suffering from a nervous
nature or hyperactivity. The Prophet (Pbuh) has also recommended
dates as a medicine for heart troubles, according to some
reports. Modern science has also proved the effectiveness
of date, in preventing diseases of the respiratory system.

Sayyidah
Ayisha, (R.A.) wife of Prophet (Pbuh), used to prescribe
dates for those suffering from giddiness. It is now well
known that a fall in the level of the sugar in the blood
and low blood pressure are among the causes of giddiness.
She was also reported to have used dates combined with
cucumber to treat her over-slim condition! She said, "they've
tried to fatten me giving me everything. But I did not
become fat. Then they fattened me with cucumber and ripe
dates and I gained!" Ayisha was quite correct, as
we now know that one kilogram of dates contains nearly
3,000 calories which alone are sufficient to supply the
minimum daily requirements of an active man for one full
day.

Dates
are rich in several vitamins and minerals. When the level
of trace elements falls in the body, the health of the
blood vessels is affected leading to an increased heart-rate
and a consequent inability to perform its function with
normal efficiency. As dates are also rich in calcium,
they help strengthen the bones. When the calcium content
in the body decreases, children are affected with rickets
and the bones of adults become brittle and weak.

Dates
are also important in keeping up the health of eyes. It
is quite effective in guarding against night-blindness.
In the early years of Islam, dates served as food for
Muslim warriors. They used to carry them in special bags
hung at their sides. They are the best stimulant for muscles
and so the best food for a warrior about to engage in
battle.

The
Prophet (Pbuh) used to combine dates with bread sometimes.
At other times he mixed ripe dates with cucumber, or dates
combined with ghee. He used to take all varieties of dates,
but he preferred the variety called Ajwah.

Zaitoon
(Olive): Cure for Seventy Diseases

Zaitoon
(Olive) the sign of peace and friendship in this world,
has its description in Holy Quran Allah Taala says

By
the fig and olive
And the mount of Sinai
And the city of security
We have indeed created man in the best of moulds
Then do we abase him (to be) the lowest of low
Except such as believe and do righteous deeds for they
shall have a reward unfailing
What then, can after this, make you deny the last judgment
Is not Allah the wisest of judges (The Fig, Surah
95)

The
plant of olive reaches the height of 3 meters, leaves
are bright green and very attractive and the fruits are
of bright bluish or violet color, possesses a metallic
taste. It is known from old ages. During the excavation
of ancient Egyptian graves, vessels full of olive oil
were found with other articles. According to the scholars
of Hadith, on subsidence of Toofan-E-Nooh (The Great Flood
of Noah), when water level came down, the first thing
on the earth that was seen was the olive plant.

The
plant is extensively found in Asia Minor, Palestine, Roman
territory, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Italy, North
Africa, Algeria, Tunisia, California, Mexico, Peru and
South zone of Australia. Usually it is imported from Spain,
Italy, France, Turkey and Greece. Though olive fruits
are very nutritious it is not usually eaten due to its
metallic taste. Rather pickles of its fruits are largely
consumed in Europe. The fruit preserved in vinegar is
imported from Greece and liked very much in Europe and
in Arabian countries.

Olive
oil is a good preservative for other eatables too. Sardine
and other fishes are tinned and preserved in olive oil.
The smokeless burning of olive oil is a peculiar feature,
which produces a bright light. Holy Quran stresses
the importance of Zaitoon on several occasions: (141-M-AlInaam-6),
(99-K-AlInaam-6), (11-K-AlNahl-16), (AlNoor-35), (Moominoon).

Hazrat
Sayyed Al-Ansari narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) said
Eat the olive oil and massage it over your bodies
since it is a holy (mubarak) tree. (Tirmizi, Ibn
Maja)

Hazrat
Aqba Bin Amir narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) stated,
You have the olive oil from this Holy (mubarak)
tree, treat yourself with this, since it cures the Anal
fissure (Basoor).

Khalid
Bin Saad narrates, I came to Madinah with Ghalib
Bin Al Jabr. Ghalib became ill during the journey. Ibn
Abi Ateeq came to see him and told a narration from Hazrat
Aisha that the Prophet (Pbuh) told about the cure in Kalonji.
We crushed a few seeds of Kalonji and mixed it with olive
oil and dropped in both nostrils, after which Ghalib became
healthy. (Ibn Maja, Bukhari)

Hazrath
Abu Hurairah narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) stated,
Eat the olive oil and apply it (locally), since
there is cure for seventy diseases in it, one of them
is Leprosy. (Abu Naim)

Hazrat
Zaid Bin Arqam narrates,  We have been directed
by the Prophet (Pbuh) that we should treat the Pleurisy
with Qust-e-Behri (Qust Sheerin) and olive oil.
(Tirmizi, sanadeAhmed, Ibn Maja)

Olive
oil has a place in Govt Pharmacopoeia of USA and Britain
(British Pharmacopoeia). Both of these countries have
given prime importance to olive oil for the treatment
of various ailments and have fixed standard parameters
to evaluate its purity.

It
contains Palmate Acid, Oleic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Steanic
Acid, Myristic Acid and Glycerides. It is not dissolved
in water but in Alcohol, Ether, Chloroform and Liquid
Paraffin.

The
adulterant very often used in the olive are of the seeds
of Tea Plant, Arachis oil in the market samples of olive
oil. Sometimes Machine Gun oil and refined Mobile oil
are also found.

Olive
oil is extracted from the ripened fruits. The unripe and
over ripe fruits contain less amount of the oil. The fruits
are processed three times. Successively, the first round
oil is the best in quality, golden in colour, with a light
fragrance and known as virgin oil. Some varieties of olive
oil remained unchanged in its effectiveness for years
together. It contains therapeutic potential even if it
is a thousand years old. Despite the prime importance
and holiness given by Quran and Prophet Muhammad
(Pbuh) no work has been done to find out its efficacy
for the ailments other than the Hemorrhoid, Anal fissure,
Skin diseases, pleurisy and leprosy, which are already
described by the Prophet (Pbuh) , whereas the Prophet
(Pbuh) himself says that it contains cure for seventy
diseases.

According
to Ibn Al-Qayyim the red coloured oil is better than blackish
one. It is an exhilarant, glows up the facial complexion,
provides prevention against poisons, regulates the digestive
process, expels the intestinal parasites, makes the hair
lustrous and minimizes the aging problems. The massage
of olive oil with common salt over the gums is a remedy
for several diseases of gums and teeth. The local application
of olive oil or the water extracted from the crushed olive
oil leaves is effective on boils, rashes and itching.
The chronic ulcers and boils, which show difficult, healing
condition, are healed up with the use of olive oil locally.

According
to Hakeem Hashmi Syed it strengthens the hairs and body,
hence could be used as a good tonic in old age problems
and to delay the aging process. It is also useful in sexual
weakness. Combination of normal saline with olive oil
is highly effective in burns cases.

The
decoction of olive leaves in water is effective against
mouth and lip ulcers and allergic dermatitis also.
The concentrated aqueous extract of olive leaves and fruits
is very effective against dental cavities and application
of this solution shows very good effects on Leukoplaquea
in mouth.
This solution is applied with vinegar on Alopecia, grows
the hair and removes the Alopecia.
It is also stated that the local application of this extract
removes the scars of small pox and boils.
The powder of seeds mixed with butter is effective in
brittle nails.
The pickles prepared from olive fruits is a good appetizer
and removes constipation.
The smashed leaves are applied locally to check excessive
perspiration.
The water extracted from the leaves with honey is used
as eardrops and effective in various ear ailments.
The oil procured by burning of olive wood is effective
against all fungal infection viz a viz, Ringworm, T.versicolor
etc. in addition to Eczema, Psoriasis, Dandruff and Alopecia.
The local application of olive oil on scalp is highly
effective against dandruff. It grows the hairs and checks,
the loss of hair.
The application of olive oil in eyes relieves the inflammation.
The massage of olive oil over the body tones up the muscles
and organs, it relieves muscular pains.
Some physicians also advocate the massage of olive oil
for epilepsy.
It relieves the Sciatic and arthritis.
The ointments prepared from olive oil are very good healing
agents. It heals the sinus and fistula very quickly. 25ml
of olive oil mixed with 250ml of barley water, if taken
internally, is highly effective against chronic constipation.
It is a good Diuretic, hence is used in Ascites.
It also removes the kidney stones.
A conventional regimen is also available comprising of
olive oil and other herbal drugs having potential against
the Gall bladder stones. It is stated that this regimen
dissolves and expels the Gall bladder stone.
In view of the researches carried out in USA and England,
it is concluded that it is a good nourishing diet during
the ailments of kidney, where nitrogen-containing food/proteins
in take is contra indicated.

Since,
the Prophet (Pbuh) stated that it is a good remedy for
Anal fissure, hence for the same complaint patients were
advised to take two spoonful of olive oil at bedtime and
an ointment was applied on fissure locally at retiring
and in morning, prepared from 8 spoonfuls of olive oil
and 2 spoonfuls of ground henna leaves. This showed very
good effects against the problem. It is a good tonic for
hair and maintains the lustre. Its combination with other
prescribed drugs of Tibb-al-Nabwi is a good remedy for
Psoriasis and Eczema. The impressions of several doctors
practicing in Middle East and North Africa reveal that
no case was detected of Gastro Intestinal Carcinoma, among
those who were used to consuming olive oil. Japanese doctors
also endorse this fact and have the opinion that olive
oil prevents the incidence of Carcinoma in G.I.T.

The
Prophet (Pbuh) stated that it is a good remedy for intestinal
inflammations. Therefore it was used in the cases of G.I.T
ulcers and found very much effective. It is also observed
that no remedy equates the benefits of olive oil in hyper
acidity and gas troubles.

The
Prophet (Pbuh) recommended the use of olive oil in Pleurisy.
Keeping this in view olive oil was administered in various
diseases of Respiratory tract and it was observed that
the regular users of olive oil were least affected with
common cold and coryzha? and pneumonia.

The
clinical experiences of well-qualified and highly established
doctors in the profession who take a keen interest in
Prophets medicine reveal that olive oil is a good
supportive treatment in Tubercular infection of either
site. According to a narration of Kahlid Bin Saad in Ibn
Maja, one spoonful of Kalonji was pulverized and mixed
with 12 spoonful of olive oil. This suggestion was dropped
into the nostrils morning and evening for the cases of
chronic cold and epitasis. The results were found highly
positive.

Honey

"Make
use of the two remedies: honey and the Quran"

Muhammad
[at-sahih al-Bukhari, Tirmidhi, ibn Majah & Baihaqi]

"And the lord inspired the bee, saying: Take your
habitations in the mountains and in the trees ad in what
they erect. Then, eat of all fruits and follow the ways
of your Lord made easy (for you)'. There comes forth from
their bellies a drink of varying color wherein is healing
for men. Verily in this is indeed a sign for people who
think." [16:68-69]

Muhammad
has informed us of the great benefits found in honey.
In recent years, scientific support is beginning to emerge
confirming the beneficial effects of honey on certain
medical and surgical conditions as well.
You may not be surprised to learn that Australia a few
years ago approved honey as a medicine, beginning to sell
it in Pharmacies!

Honey
is one of nature's oldest and most treasured sweeteners
(even if it does take a little nerve to gather), so we're
never surprised when we hear about its benefits as a food
source. It has occupied a prominent place in traditional
medicines throughout world history. It is known that the
ancient Egyptians, Assyrians, Chinese, Greeks and Romans
employed honey for wounds and diseases.
In ancient time, honey was seen as a symbol of wealth
and happiness. It was associated with strength, beauty
and longevity.
Today, honey is widely available in most communities but
its medical potential remains grossly underutilized.

Nutritionally,
honey is a healthy, easily digestible, natural and energy
rich food. It contains carbohydrates, proteins, lipids,
enzymes and vitamins. One tablespoon of honey provides
60 calories and contains 11g of carbohydrates, 1mg of
calcium, 0.2mg of iron, 0.lmg of vitamin B and 1mg of
vitamin C. Honey also contains glucose, fructose and saccharine
(70%). Besides the above, copper, iodine, and zinc exist
in it in small quantities.

The
Prophet has also told us of the healing found within honey
for a variety of medical problems, including stomach ailments.
One hadith, reported by Bukhari, states that a man came
to the Prophet because his brother had a stomach disorder.
The Prophet said "Let him drink honey." The
man returned a second time and again the Prophet responded
again, "Let him drink honey."
The man returned again, and said "I have done that."
The Prophet then responded, "Allah has said the truth,
but your brother's stomach has told a lie. Let him drink
honey." He drank it and was cured.

Recipes
from the Foods mentioned in the Qur'an

Honey
Recipes

Olive
Recipes

Fig
Recipes

Kalonji (Nigella Sativa)

The plants of Kalonji are found throughout India in the
form of bushes. The height of the plant is approximately
half a meter. It possesses blue flowers. It originated
from Turkey and Italy. Later on, it was brought to Asia
by physicians and cultivated in India. Seeds are triangular
in shape, black in colour and possess a severe pungent
smell, contain a considerable amount of oil. It is incorrect
that Arabs learnt its use from the Greeks, because before
the advent of Islam, no description or record is found
about its use. Its therapeutic use was initiated after
the advent of Islam, since; Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) mentioned
its therapeutic efficacy and potential of cure.

Chemical
Composition - seeds contain 1.5% volatile oil, while 37.5%
Non volatile oil. In addition to this Albumen, Sugar,
Organic acids, Glucoside Melanthin Metarbin and bitter
substances are also found. The Glucoside is toxic in nature,
hence the use of Kalonji in large doses and prolonged
use might be harmful.

Hazrat
Abu Hurairah States - I have heard from Rasool Allah
(Pbuh) that there is cure for every disease in black seeds
except death and black seeds are shooneez.

Salim
Bin Abdullah narrates with reference to his father Hazrat
Abdullah Bin Omar that Rasool Allah (Pbuh) said, Let
fall these black seeds upon you, these contain cure for
all diseases except death.

The
same narration is found in Sanad-e-Ahmed from Hazrat Aisha
(t) and in Ibn-al-Jozi and Trimizi from Abu Huraira. Hazrat
Buraida narrates that Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) stated -
Shooneez is cure for all ailments except death.

It
is stated in the books of seerat that Nabi-e-Akram (Pbuh)
himself used to take these seeds for therapeutic purpose
but with the syrup of Honey.

Khalid
Bin Saad states that he was traveling with Ghalib Bin
Jabr, when he fell ill during the journey. Ibn Abi Ateeq
(nephew of Hazrat Aisha) came to meet us. On seeing the
patient, he took 5 or 7 seeds of Kalonji and ground it,
mixed it in olive oil and dropped in both nostrils, Hazrat
Aisha told us that Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) stated that
there was cure in black seeds for all ailments except
sam. I asked him, what was sam? He said Death.
Ghalib Bin Jabr became healthy with that treatment.

Observations
of the scholars of Hadith reveal that shooneez is equally
effective for the diseases due to heat and cold. Zahbi
states that kalonji removes the obstruction of any part
of the body, expels the gases and strengthens the stomach.

It
is Emmenagogue, Lactogogue and Diuretic.
It is an Anti-Helminthic, if taken with vinegar.
It is useful in chronic cold. Inhalation of its smell
is useful in common cold.
The oil of Kalonji is effective in Alopecia.
Half teaspoonful, if boiled in water and taken, is helpful
in Asthma and diffuses the toxic effects of Bee and Wasps.
Continuous use of kalonji is effective in mad dog bites.
Fumigation of kalonji is useful in Respiratory Diseases.
It is useful in Paralysis, Facial Palsy, Migraine, Amnesia
and Palpitation.
It is also an Expectorant and Antipyretic.
It normalizes the secretions of stomach and pancreas.
This phenomenon is very much effective and significant
in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus.
It expels the Kidney and Urinary Bladder stones, if taken
with the syrup of honey.
It is effective in Jaundice if taken with milk.
Its powder if taken with water is effective in treating
Haemorrhoids.
If Kalonji seeds are boiled in vinegar and this solution
is applied on Gums and Teeth, it removes the Inflammation
of the gums and relieves the pain also.
It is also reported that its fine powder is effective
if applied in early stages of Cataract.
Kalonji is also used in Skin disorders.
The oil of the seeds is also effective in Earache.
If it is taken with Qust Sheering after breakfast and
dinner, it is effective in chronic Dysentery and Asthma.
Qust Sheering is a good medicine for sexual debility,
but if it is taken with Kalonji seeds and Habburrashad,
it becomes more fortified.
Modern trials have proven that Kalonji seeds alone or
in combination with other drugs are highly effective in
Diabetes Mellitus, Vitiligo and other Skin ailments.

Barley:
Sattoo...Powdered Barley

The
Prophet (Pbuh) recommended Barley to cure grief of heart
and ailments of kidney

Barley
crops are cultivated throughout the country during the
season of rabi crops and utilized in various forms including
the Barley flour. The plants of barley are very similiar
to wheat and the seeds are elongated in shape in comparison
to wheat with a covering of light yellow colour. Prophet
Muahmmad (Pbuh) liked it very much and used it in various
forms such as barley bread, gruel and dough.

During
the period of the Prophet (Pbuh) the people either used
to eat the Barley bread or to mix the wheat flour with
Barley flour to prepare the bread generally. One lad used
to sell the preparation from Beet roots and barley at
the gate of Masjid-e-Nabwi on every Friday and it is said
that holy companions liked this preparation as much as
they used to wait for Friday eagerly.

Hazrat
Ummul Manzar states that the Prophet (Pbuh) along with
Hazrat Ali came to our house, we had the dates and those
were presented to them. Both of them ate from those dates.
When Hazrat Ali consumed a little of those, the Prophet
(Pbuh) said You recently recovered from illness,
hence you are weak, dont eat more. Therefore, that
lady prepared a dish from barley and beet root. Then,
the Prophet (Pbuh) told Hazrat Ali eat from it,
it is better for you. (Ibn-e-Maja, Sanad-e-Ahmed,
Tirmizi) This proves that after illness, the preparation
made from barley and beet roots is very good tonic for
weak persons.

Hazrat
Anas Bin Malik states that a tailor invited the Prophet
(Pbuh) to meals. He prepared barley bread and meat with
pumpkin. The Prophet (Pbuh) very affectionately ate the
pumpkin pieces from the curry. (Bukhari, Muslim)

Yousuf
Bin Abdullah Bin Salam states that I saw the Prophet taking
a piece of barley bread and put a date on it and stated
that was breads vegetable. (Abu Dawood)

The
barley gruel was especially prepared after boiling barley
with milk and sweetened with honey. That preparation was
called Talbina.

Whenever
a person of the family of Rasool Allah fell sick, it was
ordered that barley gruel should be prepared for him.
He stated it removes the grief of the patients heart,
removes its weakness as any of you removes the dirt from
your face after washing it. (Ibn Maja)

Hazrat
Aisha (R.A) used to order preparation of Talbina for sick
persons and used to say though the patient may dislike
it, but it is highly beneficial for him. (Bukhari)

Another
narration is found on record from Hazrat Aisha Siddiqua
(R.A). Whenever anyone complained of loss of appetite
to the Prophet (Pbuh) he ordered to use Talbina and stated
By Allah who holds my life, this removes the dirt
of your abdomen as one of you removes the dirt of your
face by washing it.

Powdered
barley (Sattoo) was very much liked by the Prophet (Pbuh).
At the time of victory of Khaibar, the Prophet agreed
to marry to Hazrat Safia, the very next day he directed
to Hazrat Anas Bin Malik to invite the people to attend
the Dawat-e-Walima of Hazrat Safia. According to the narrations
of Tirmizi and Ibn Majah the walima comprised of dates
and sattoo, but according to Bukhari a confection was
prepared from dates, barley and sattoo and served before
the guests.

In
Nisai, Abu Dawood, Bukhari, Ibn-e-Majah, Tirmizi and Ahmed
Bin Hambal, there are 21 hadiths recommending the consumption
of Sattoo. Besides this the description of Sattoo is also
available in other ahadith.

According
to the scholars of hadith barley is very nutritious and
provides energy for the body, besides this is also beneficial
in pharyngitis and cough. It resolves the inflammation
of the stomach (Gastritis), expels the toxins from the
body and is a good diuretic. It quenches the thirst. Barley
water is a good remedy in kidney problem, to quench the
thirst and provide the best nutrition for indisposed and
weak persons. preparation of Barley water is described
by Ibn Al-Qayyim. According to him, barley with five times
water should be boiled, till the contents become 3/4 and
the colour of the mixture becomes milky.

Scientists
have found the following items during the chemical synthesis
of barley - albuminoids, starch, fat, fibre, ash and water.
Chemical composition shows that it contains the fat in
the form of Leucosine Gluten Albumen, the compound of
Nitrogen as palmatic Acid, Salisylic Acid, Phosphoric
Acid. Besides, it contains Hypoxanthens. British Pharmacopoeia
recommends Malt extract for internal use. It contains
4 per cent Protiens, the enzymes for digestion of carbohydrates
and vitamins. Some scientists also indicate the presence
of Arsenic in the barley grain.

The
ancient physicians explained various experiences
regarding the use of barley. Ibn Sina says that the blood
produced by consuming barley is neutral, pure and of low
consistency.

According
to Firdous Al-Hikmat the suspension prepared from one
part of barley and fifteen part of water until after boiling
this volume becomes 2/3rd of its basic solution, is beneficial
for at least hundred diseases of the body.

Garlic
(Allium sativum)

Garlic is an onion, with the bulb made up of cloves instead
of layers. The flowers are white to pink in round shaped
umbels. Hollow long leaves, can reach up to 2 feet.

Garlic
has been used since the days of the Egyptians to treat
wounds, infections, tumors, and intestinal parasites.

In
fact, garlic has been used medicinally for at least 3,000
years, but until relatively recently its benefits were
considered little more than folklore. According to a report
in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Nov.
28, 1990;264:2614), the therapeutic roles of garlic have
been described in more than 1,000 scientific studies.

Beneficial
Properties:

Modern
scientific research confirms these ancient uses for garlic,
including the ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (fats)
as well as elevated blood pressure increase the risk of
cardiovascular disease. Garlic's sulfur-containing compounds,
which lend the herb its pungent, spicy aroma, are responsible
for many of its healing properties. Specifically, these
compounds lower cholesterol by stimulating the release
of bile by the gall bladder (bile contains cholesterol
and related compounds) and by decreasing the production
of cholesterol in the liver. In addition, garlic compounds
gently lower blood pressure by slowing the production
of the body's own blood pressure raising hormones.

Garlic
also possesses the ability to stimulate the immune system.
The bulb stimulates the activity of macrophages, white
blood cells which engulf the foreign organisms, such as
viruses, bacteria, and yeast. It increases the activity
of the T-helper cells, immune cells which are central
to the activity of the entire immune system. Garlic may
be particularly effective in treating upper respiratory
viral infections due to its immune-enhancing properties
and its ability to clear mucous from the lungs.

Garlic
also possesses the ability to inhibit the growth of parasites
in the intestines, including amoebas which cause dysentery.
Garlic has also been used in folk medicine in many parts
of the world to treat pinworms, an annoying but generally
harmless intestinal parasite.

This
amazing herb has also demonstrated the ability to protect
against a variety of environmental and other toxins. Garlic's
sulfur compounds, in addition to selenium containing compounds,
are potent antioxidants which protect cell membranes and
DNA from damage. Furthermore scientific studies have shown
that garlic stimulates the production of the liver's own
detoxifying enzymes which neutralize carcinogens and other
toxins.

Cardiovascular
System
World Holistic Medicine, New Orleans, reported that garlic
can lower blood levels of "total" cholesterol
and, particularly, of the dangerous low-density lipoprotein
(LDL) form. Jain gave 20 men and women 900 milligrams
of garlic powder tablets daily and compared them to 22
people getting just a placebo.

By
the end of the 12-week study, total blood cholesterol
levels dropped by an average of 6 percent among those
taking the garlic tablets, compared with only a 1 percent
drop among those taking a placebo. The garlic takers also
benefited from an 11 percent decrease in the LDL form
of cholesterol, compared with a 3 percent reduction in
the placebo group. American Journal of Medicine (June
1994;94:632-5).

Blood
thinner
Garlic is also an anticoagulant - a natural blood thinner.
Hakeem Hashmi, of the University of Saarlandes, Hamburg,
Germany, recently found that garlic could help patients
suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease,
characterized by blood clots in the legs.

Typically,
patients with the condition are asked to walk, because
increased blood flow reduces the number of clots. However,
they are easily discouraged because peripheral arterial
occlusive disease causes extreme pain after walking only
a short distance.

Hakeem
Hashmi Syed gave 32 patients 800 milligrams of garlic
powder tablets daily for 12 weeks, while another 32 patients
received a placebo. He then measured their "pain-free
walking distance." For the first several weeks, both
groups of patients progressed about as they would in a
typical walking program. As time went on however, patients
taking garlic were able to walk about one-third farther
without pain.

Blood
pressure
The researcher also noted that garlic's benefits, which
included decreased blood pressure, could be detected after
patients took a single garlic powder capsule. Blood pressure
increases in response to the body's production of angiotensen
I-converting enzyme (ACE). Some prescription blood pressure
drugs work as "ACE inhibitors," blocking formation
of the chemical. Garlic contains gamma-glutamylcysteine,
a natural ACE inhibitor.

Microbial
and Fungal Infections
Scientific research has also confirmed garlic's role as
a natural antibiotic. Back in 1983, Lau noted in Medical
Hypotheses (12:227-37) that "garlic extract has broad-spectrum
antimicrobial activity against many genera of bacteria
and fungi...Because many of the microorganisms susceptible
to garlic extract are medically significant, garlic holds
a promising position as a broad-spectrum therapeutic agent."

One
way garlic works is by promoting phagocytosis, the ability
of white blood cells to fight infections. Another is by
stimulating other immune cells, such as macrophages and
T-cells to fight bacterial and viral infections and to
scavenge for cancer cells. described how garlic enhanced
the body's "killer cell" activity against the
AIDS virus.

Lau
has also noted that garlic can combat Candida infections.
In one study, he injected an aged garlic extract into
mice with Candida infections. After a day, the Candida
colonies numbered 400, compared with 3,500 among the mice
given only a salt-water solution. After two days, the
garlic-treated mice were free of Candida.

Ginger

Ginger
(Zingiber officinale) is a natural spice that is also
widely prized for its medicinal properties. Since ancient
times, traditional healers in a diverse array of cultures
have used this plant primarily to help settle upset stomachs.
Chinese herbalists have relied on ginger as a medicine
and flavoring for more than 2,500 years. The early Greeks
mixed it into breads (hence the first gingerbread), and
North American colonists sipped nausea-quelling ginger
beer, the precursor of modern ginger ale. Today, many
cultures continue to rely on ginger for controlling nausea
and also for reducing inflammation.

A
botanical relative of marjoram and turmeric, the ginger
plant is indigenous to southeast Asia and is now also
extensively cultivated in Jamaica and other tropical areas.
It's the plant's aromatic rhizome (or underground stem)
that's used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Health
Benefits

Ginger's
effectiveness as a digestive aid is due largely to its
active ingredients: gingerols and shogaols. These substances
help to neutralize stomach acids, enhance the secretion
of digestive juices (stimulating the appetite), and tone
the muscles of the digestive tract. Research confirms
the presence of anti-inflammatory properties in ginger
as well.

Specifically,
ginger may help to:

Relieve
nausea. Standard anti-nausea medications often work through
the central nervous system, causing drowsiness. Ginger
isn't likely to cause this reaction, however, because
it acts directly on the digestive tract. In studies of
women undergoing major gynecological or exploratory (laparoscopic)
surgery, those who took 1 gram of ginger before the procedure
experienced significantly less postoperative reaction
to anesthesia and surgery--namely, nausea and vomiting--than
did those who were given a placebo. Ginger also may be
useful in easing the nausea that frequently follows chemotherapy
treatments.

Combat
motion sickness. In a widely cited study of Danish naval
cadets, those given 1 gram of powdered ginger daily had
much fewer incidents of cold sweats and vomiting (classic
symptoms of seasickness) than did those given a placebo.
A number of other studies have demonstrated similar findings
concerning ginger's calming effect on motion sickness.

Reduce
dizziness. Ginger's anti-nausea action also helps dispel
dizziness, particularly when the dizziness is aggravated
by motion sickness. Older people, who can be unsteady
on their feet, may particularly benefit from ginger's
steadying influence.

Limit
flatulence. Because ginger soothes the digestive tract,
it can be useful in relieving flatulence..

Control
chronic pain. Ginger helps indirectly to relieve chronic
pain by reducing inflammation by lowering the body's level
of natural pain-causing compounds called prostaglandins.
Localized chronic pain may also respond well to ginger
oil massages.

Ease
the pain of muscle aches and rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger
oil massaged into sore or aching muscles offers a measure
of relief from muscle strain, in part because of the herb's
anti-inflammatory properties. When taken in standardized
extract form, ginger may additionally lower the level
of the body's natural pain-causing compounds called prostaglandins.
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may also respond to treatment
with ginger, either in massage oil or standardized extract
form. In a study of seven women with rheumatoid arthritis,
reduced joint swelling and pain were reported following
a daily regimen of up to 1 gram of powdered ginger or
5 to 50 grams of fresh ginger.

Minimize
symptoms of the common cold, allergies, and other respiratory
conditions. Ginger is a natural antihistamine and decongestant.
It seems to provide a measure of relief from cold and
allergy symptoms by dilating constricted bronchial tubes.
It's often included in herbal decongestant blends that
are designed for sinusitis and other respiratory complaints.

Green
Tea

Legend
has it that in ancient times, a Chinese emperor was drinking
some hot water when leaves from a nearby tea shrub (Camellia
sinensis) dropped into his cup. He apparently liked the
soothing drink that resulted from this chance event. And
so began what is today a worldwide love affair with tea.
It's now second only to water as the most popular drink
in the world.

Interestingly,
research studies in recent years have confirmed the presence
of various healing substances that provide the therapeutic
properties long ascribed to the ubiquitous tea leaf. Of
particular importance are potent antioxidant chemicals
called polyphenols that help guard against many kinds
of basic cell damage.

Health
Benefits
Green tea is well established as a potent source of healing
antioxidants--the same beneficial compounds found in fruits
and vegetables. The leaf also boasts the presence of a
superstar antioxidant called EGCG (epigallocatechin-gallate)
as well as other notable healing substances, including
fluoride, catechins, and tannins.

Many
of the medicinal claims made for green tea haven't been
examined outside a laboratory setting, specifically in
clinical trials that assess the plant's health effects
in people. On the other hand, the pure research findings
are exciting, and there appears to be no harm in integrating
this ancient brew into your daily diet.

Ongoing
research suggests that thanks to its numerous and varied
antioxidant compounds, sipping green tea regularly may
help to prevent various types of cancer, guard against
heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing
blood pressure, promote longevity, stave off tooth decay
(the tea contains the cavity fighter, fluoride), help
heal gum infections, and provide a number of other benefits.

Researchers
have found that only about 10 ounces of green tea will
significantly increase the body's antioxidant capacity
for at least two hours.

Because
it contains astringent tannin compounds, green tea in
moderation can ease indigestion, diarrhea, and other forms
of stomach upset. Swiss researchers even have preliminary
evidence that green tea accelerates the burning of fat
calories in people who are overweight. A small but interesting
1999 study reported in the American Journal of Clinical
Nutrition reported increased energy expenditure and fat
oxidation in men who took a green tea extract as opposed
to a placebo or caffeine alone.

Specifically,
green tea may help to:

Prevent
Cancer. The antioxidant EGCG sets in motion a process
called apoptosis. Interestingly, the cell death that ensues
only affects cancer cells, not healthy ones. EGCG may
well enhance the body's natural antioxidant system as
well, encouraging the elimination of damaging oxygen molecules
called free radicals.

One
large-scale study in China found that people who drank
as little as one cup of green tea a week for six months
had a reduced risk of developing certain kinds of cancers
(rectal, pancreatic, and others) than did people who drank
green tea less frequently or not at all. Other preliminary
research indicates that green tea can help to combat breast,
stomach, and skin cancer.

Counter
Aging. Given the latest findings on the potent antioxidants
in green tea, it's no wonder that this brew has long been
touted for promoting long life. Its high antioxidant concentrations
apparently enhance longevity by fighting heart disease
and cancer, among other ailments. According to epidemiologic
studies, Japanese men and women who drink five to 10 cups
of green tea daily are more likely to live longer, they
are also more likely to stay cancer- and heart disease-free.

Treat
Arthritis. Antioxidants in green tea may prevent and
reduce the severity of osteoarthritis. Studies have shown
that if you consume approximately four cups of green tea
a day you may be able to protect yourself from developing
arthritis, and if you already have arthritis, consuming
green tea can help to diminish the inflammation it causes.

--To
get an adequate amount of polyphenols, you need three
to four cups of green tea a day.

--Antioxidant
researchers say that two 8-ounce cups of green tea contain
about as many flavonoids (a type of antioxidant) as a
serving of vegetables or fruit.

Guidelines
for Use
The healing properties of green tea can be derived from
all its forms, but brewing the tea may certainly be the
most pleasant way to ingest it. Of course, the taste of
green tea may not appeal to everyone. A generous dollop
of honey makes it more palatable for some people.

Preparing
the tea with loose leaves provides no benefit over tea
bags, but do try to find bags that haven't been lying
around for months.

For
a caffeine-free product, look for decaffeinated green
tea.

It
doesn't appear to matter what time of day you drink green
tea, although doing so throughout the day may be the most
beneficial because you get a constant supply of antioxidants.
And remember, green tea does contain caffeine, so drink
the brew earlier in the day if you find that it keeps
you awake at night.

General
Interaction
There are no known drug or nutrient interactions associated
with green tea.

Claims
that high concentrations of vitamin K in green tea leaves
can pose blood clotting problems, particularly in people
taking anticoagulant medications for heart disease or
other problems, have been discounted; the amount of vitamin
K in an 8-ounce cup of brewed tea is negligible.

Possible
Side Effects
Most of the side effects of green tea are the result of
its caffeine content. One cup of brewed tea has about
40 mg of caffeine. If you drink excessive amounts of brewed
tea, you may experience caffeine-related irritability,
sleeplessness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, vomiting,
diarrhea, headache, or loss of appetite.

Henna

Henna
plant (Lawsonia Inermis) is well known in the Arab and
Muslims world, extensively grown in India and Sudan, and
used mainly for cosmetic purposes.

Over
the last many years I have used Henna as medicine after
I read the Hadith that the Prophet (PUH) ordered anyone
who has been pricked by a thorn or has an ulcer on his
leg to put Henna on it.

After
many years of experience I have come to call it the Magic
Plant and in the following paragraphs I will explain why:

1-It
has a great healing effect, it contain many healing substances
like Tannin and other Glue like substances.

2-It
has anti-microbial effect especially anti-viral effect.

HENNA
USES

1
BURNS

Henna
when applied to a first or second-degree burn gives very
good results:

Decreases
pain.
Decreases fluid loss from the burn site, this is important
if the burn area is large.
It has anti-microbial effect hence it decreases infection.
Sticks to the burned site until healing is complete.
Easy to apply to the burned site as paste or powdered.
Cheap and available.

2
- HEALING PROPERTIES

Henna
promotes wound healing especially chronic wounds and ulcers,
I have used it on nuropathic ulcers of the foot and it
proved to be very effective. The main factor that promotes
healing is not known but I think it has this effect by
its nourishing effect on the wound and its anti-microbial
properties. If the wound is infected antibiotic cover
usually needed.

3
- ANTI-HAEMORHAGIC

I
used henna for treatment of Epistaxis, and it proved to
be very effective, and give a long lasting cure. And does
not need to be applied more than once most of the times,
the powder sticks to the bleeding area until healed, it
works better than cauterization, which most of the times
needs to be repeated and still does not guarantee against
that recurrence of the bleeding.

ANTERIOR
NOSE BLEED (from little area): treated by applying
the powdered henna to bleeding spot, using a ready made
ear cleaning stick with its cotton covered end, pack the
powder to the site of bleeding, that will stop the bleeding,
rarely it needs to be repeated again and that is really
magic way of treatment for epistaxis.

POSTERIOR
NOSE BLEED: Which is very difficult to treat as every
ENT doctor knows, with this Henna powder just ask the
patient to sniff the powder through the anterior nostril
to make it reach the back of the nose or posterior nostril
and by this action the powder will stick to the bleeding
area and the bleeding will stop, no more do we need to
use posterior nose pack which is a nightmare for the patient
and the doctor at the same time. The only side effect
of Henna here is that it causes the patient to sneeze
a little.

The
anti-bleeding effect of Henna could be used on other sites
like bleeding duodenal ulcer or esophageal varices . This
needs to be tried as far as there are no side effect known.

This
anti-bleeding effect may be due to its coagulation like
effect or its locally burning effect.

4-ANTI-VIRAL

Henna
definitely has an anti-viral effect that became clear
by its action on:

Warts:
We have tried it many times especially on warts which
are resistant to cryo (Nitrogen liquid) treatment and
prove effective, one giant wart measuring 1.5x1.5cm on
a child thumb which was resistant to all forms of treatment,
at last the child referred to the plastic surgeon for
operation, we tried Henna on it, applied every other day
over night and in few weeks it disappeared completely.
The Dermatologist nurse has a wart on her finger for more
than two years that was resistant to liquid nitrogen treatment,
we asked her to use henna and got cured. We found it very
useful especially on multiple warts. On warts Henna is
applied as paste.

Herpes
Simplex:
This second is proven and successful effect of Henna on
viral infections. We applied it in powdered form to herpes
site, we noticed: It dried the vesicles at the site early.
It prevents ulceration and crust formation. It prevent
secondary infection. Henna is applied on herpes in powdered
form.

This
anti-viral effect of Henna is very promising, and should
be explored further, It could used as treatment for AIDS.
It is natural, cheap, and has no side effects even when
taken orally.

We
have prepared Henna in capsules now at home and used it
as a prophylaxis against Flu during last Hajj and we think
it helped, as we did not get the infection while most
people got Hajj Flu that is usually a severe one. But
this is too early to be sure about and needs more trials.

5-OTHER
USES OF HENNA:

Henna
can be used as a prophylaxis especially to protect diabetic
patients feet, I routinely now advice my diabetic patients
to use henna at least once a month because:

It
helps to heal fissures and cracks in the foot and reduces
foot infection.
It improves the skin texture, which look healthier and
softer.
It may delay the nuropathic effect of diabetes; in fact
it may reverse the early ones. This needs more time to
prove.

Henna
could be used in the following areas:

1-
Back pain

2-
for ulcerative colitis as enema.

3-
for bleeding duodenal ulcers.

This
is our experience with Henna over the last six years or
more; the most promising is its anti-viral effect that
could prove a breakthrough in modern medicine as a treatment
for HIV patients.

Kasni:
The Plant of Life

(Wild
Cherry, Hindba in Arabic and popularly called Bazrullah)

Kasni is very popular since antiquity as food and medicine
in human life.

It
is also grown in the fields of Berseem for the purpose
of feed for animals by the farmers of India. It is cultivated
throughout India but especially in the fields of Western
and South India.

It
is wildly grown as well as cultivated in Europe. It is
marketed under the name, Syrup of Wild Cherry
in European markets and is very effective in the treatment
of cough for children.

Wildly
grown Kasni is being used for respiratory troubles. Green
leaves of Kasni is being eaten as salad.

The
leaves, stem, root and seeds of the plant are being used
as drug in different ailments. Kasni is known as Hindba
in Arabic and popularly called Bazrullah.

Hazrat
Abdullah bin Abbas narrates that Rasool Allah says:

There
is Kasni for you, because no part of day passes without
showering the drops of Paradise water on it. (Abu
Naim)

The
same verse is stated by Mohammed Ahmed Zahbi with reference
to Abu Naim as follows Eat Kasni without shaking
it, because no part of the day is passed without showering
the paradise water on it.

"Eat
Kasni and do not shake its leaves because no day is passed
without showering on it the water of paradise."

"One
who ate Kasni and slept, the poison and evil spirit would
not affect him".

"None
of the leaves of Kasni is there--which has not been showered
by the paradise water drops".

The
extract of Kasni leaves, if applied on scorpion bite,
relieves pain and inflammation. It is useful in cataract
if dropped in eyes. The aqueous extract of Kasni roots
is a good remedy for eye troubles.

Kasni
normalises the temperature, as it cools the hotness as
well as removes the coldness by producing heat in the
body. It relieves the GIT inflammations. It is very much
useful for all digestive problems if taken in vinegar.
Crushed leaves of Kasni, if applied on inflamed parts
of the body, relieves the pain and inflammation. It removes
the obstructions of liver and gall bladder. It is highly
useful in jaundice and the effects are more fortified
if given with dates and Razyanaj. If olive oil is mixed
in the extract of the leaves of Kasni it is very much
useful in all cases of poisoning.

The
leaves of Kasni remove constipation and if chewed, it
relieves mouth bleeding. It is useful in all types of
coughs, indigestion and liver disorders. It relieves diarrhoea
and dysentery, it becomes more effective if taken with
saunf and tukhm-e-kasoos.

It
relieves visceral inflammation, hence is very much effective
in liver and kidney inflammations. Moreover, it cleans
nasal passages and expels stones and removes the obstructions.
The headache produced due to hot climate is quite relieved
by the application of its leaves with vinegar and sandal
on forehead. The same combination is effective in Urticaria
and prickly heat.

The
gargling with Kasni leaves decoction with salt is useful
in sore throat and mouth ulcers. The decoction of Kasni
seeds, sandal and sounf with sharbat e banafsha is highly
effective against insomnia.

German
chemists in 1982 extracted an active principle from Kasni
flowers, Cichorin, a Glucoside. The ashes of the plant
contain more potassium and less quantity of sodium, calcium,
phosphorus, aluminium chloride, carbonate and silicon.
And oil is also extracted from the plant which is non-volatile
in nature. This oil contains the Palmatic, Oleic, Stearic
and Linoleic acids. The roots of the plants contain Tartaric
acid, Mannite and Stearin. Besides this, Betaine and Cholin
are also found.

The
Inulin found in the roots is converted into Inulide tructose
after sometime. This phenomenon shows the presence of
enzymes in the Kasni plant. Although, it contains bitter
substances and mucilage, it has fructose as well.

Khumbi
Mann Mushroom (Agaricus campesteris)

It is a self growing Fungus, wildly grows during the rainy
season. There are several varieties of this plant, but
for the eating purpose only Agaricus campesteris is being
used, while other varieties like Psalliota campesteris
is not for eating purpose, because all most all species
of this plant are toxic in nature. Morphologically the
plants are of two types, one which has an umbrella on
its shaft but other appears like small balls. The latter
is the only variety to eat.

Hazrat
Sayeed Bin Zaid narrates that Rasool Allah (SAW) said,
Khumbi is from Mann, its water is a cure for eyes

The
same narration is stated too by Jabir (RA), while Abu
Naim narrated the same from Hazrat Aisha and Abdullah
Bin Abbas.

Hazrat
Abi Sayeed narrates that Rasool Allah (SAW) said, Khumbi
is a part of Mann, Mann actually is from paradise, its
water is a cure for eyes.

Hazrat
Sayeed Bin Zaid narrates that Nabi-e-Akram (SAW) said,
Kumbi is from that Mann, which was sent to Bani
Israel by Allah Taala. Its water is a cure for the eyes.

Hazrat
Suhaib narrates that Rasool Allah (SAW) said, Kumbi
is here for your benefit, it is from Mann, its water is
a cure for the eyes.

Hazrat
Abu Hurrairah narrates that one day Ashab of Nabi-e-Akram
(SAW) said that Khumbi was the small pox of the land.
Consequently Nabi-e-Akram (SAW) said that Khumbi was from
Mann and the water of khumbi was the cure for the ailments
of the eyes, while the Ajwa Dates were from Paradise and
an antidote for poisons.

Abu
Hurrairah states that after this, I took 3/5/7 khumbis,
squeezed those and collected the extracted water in a
bottle. This water was applied in the eyes of my servant
who was suffering from eye trouble and she got cured with
that water.

The
scholars of Hadith laid down the following conditions
and possibilities for the use of Khumbi.

i)
The water extracted from Khumbi is itself a drug, it should
be used in the same form.

ii)
It should not be mixed with other drugs.

iii)
According to Hakeem Hashmi Syed the Khumbi water fortifies
the effect of other drugs. Example: if it is mixed during
the grinding process of surma, this surma strengthens
the eye lashes, corrects the refraction defects and sight
weakness and relieves any type of inflammation of the
eyes.

Chemical
composition - According to Muni & Co, the Khumbi contains
the following components:

Other
scholars state that it contains 90% water, 30% Proteins,
5% Carbohydrate and 1% Minerals and vitamins. The active
principle of Khumbi is Agaric Fungi Acid. It contains
less Sodium and more potassium, hence, can be used by
the Hypertensive safely.

The
white variety is ideal to eat, while black and red coloured
are toxic in nature. Abu Sahal Masihi, the teacher of
Sheikh Bu Ali Sina, states it is a cure for almost all
diseases of the eye.

If
the balls of Khumbi are dried and ground in the form of
powder, it is effective in Diarrhoea. It lessens the temperature
of the body and reduces the production of Phlegm.

It
is also used for weight gain.

Locally,
if it is applied on protruded umbilicus of small children
with saresham mahi and vinegar, the umbilicus becomes
retracted. I

ts
local application is also effective in Hernia.

It
is a Haematinic too.

Its
paste is a good healing agent for wounds.

Now-a-days,
Mushrooms have become popular food in the society. Europeans
are very fond of the dishes prepared from mushrooms, but
it is worthwhile to mention here that Nabi-e-Akram (SAW)
told us its advantages and directed us to use it as food
and drug hundreds years ago. But unfortunately, it is
least used by Muslims in their diet in India. Mushrooms
belong to the same family of fungi, from which several
Antibiotics have been invented like penicillin, Chloromycetin
etc. Modern research has also derived some Antibacterials
from mushrooms. These are under trial and possibilities
might not be ruled out of their therapeutic place in medical
science. Trials have proved that the mushroom water has
a potential to kill the bacteria. It is given in Typhoid
Typhus and other Fevers with honey and shows very good
effects. It is a very good Haemostatic, if applied on
the haemorrhagic site of leech bite.

'Get
Cure From Methi'

Methi
(Fenugreek) is cultivated throughout the country and used
as vegetable in various eatables. It is used in Europe,
America and Australia as well. Fresh Methi herb does not
contain any smell but after drying, it becomes fragrant
and possesses a specific type low grade smell. Methi from
Qasoor in Punjab is very famous in its fragrance throughout
the country and known as Qasoori Methi.

After
the victory of Makkah, when Hazrat Sad Bin Abi Waqqas
fell ill then Haris Bin Kaldah, a renowned and well qualified
physician of that time directed to prepare Fariqa
for him by boiling the dates and barley gruel in the Methi
water and directed that if be given to the patient luke-warmed
with honey morning and evening. This recipe was presented
before Nabi-e-Akram (saw). He liked that and the patient
got cured. The scholars of Hadith have an opinion that
figs might be used in place of dates. But both cant
be taken together. Another narration reveals that the
recipe contained the Mulethi (Liquorice) also.

According
to the scholars of Al-Hadith the __decoction of Methi
seeds is highly beneficial for sore throat, throat pain
and Tonsillitis, relieves Dyspnoea (Breathlessness) and
the severity of cough. It also relieves the hyper acidity
and stomach burning. This action of Methi is highly significant
because all the drugs used for cough produce irritation
in the stomach, whereas this relieves the cough without
producing irritation in the stomach and might be used
safely on patients suffering from cough along with dyspepsia.

It
relieves the complaints associated with hemorrhoids.

The
decoction or the fine powder of methi seeds is an established
remedy for dandruff. It tones up the hair and the hair
becomes silky and shiny.

The
chemical composition of methi seeds depicts that it contains
proteins and Amino acids in such a ratio comparable to
milk. Besides phosphates, it contains an organic form
of iron which is easily absorbable through gastro-intestinal
tract. It contains several Alkaloids but Trigonelline
is an important one.

The
salts relieve the inflammation of urinary tract infections.

On
the basis of its chemical composition, it can be used
as an expectorant.

In
the cases of Nephritis, when dieuresis becomes least,
it is a good remedy to increase dieuresis. 5gm of methi
seeds powder if taken with water is highly beneficial
in dysentery and diarrhoea.

The
lukewarm decoction of Methi seeds if taken with honey
is beneficial in cough and increases urination.

It
is also a good appetiser and might be used in dyspepsia
and anorexia.

It
also increases milk secretion when it is deficient.

It
is a source of iron and B-complex, hence can be used in
general weakness.

It
is also reported that continuous use of methi seeds is
also significant in the treatment of haemorrhoids.

Recent
studies show that it is a good remedy for diabetes mellitus.

Several
patients who were having raised blood glucose level and
were treated with the formulation comprising methi seeds,
kalonji and tukhm-e-kasni improved significantly and the
blood glucose level became normal.

Some
patients of NIDDM were also treated with methi seeds,
Berg-e-Neem and Kalonji and showed very good response.

Methi
seed is also useful in chronic dysentery and peptic ulcer.

Neem

Azadirachta
indica
For centuries, millions have used various parts of the
plant:
Neem twigs for cleaning teeth.
Neem cream healing skin disorders.
Neem leaf juice, taken Neem as a tonic,
Neem leaves in beds, books, grain bins, cupboards, and
closets to keep away insects.
Various parts of the plant for treatment of ailments like
fever, infections and other complaints.
Neem leaf extract substantially increases the state of
oxidation in red blood cells
Neem reduces erosion deforestation and controlling the
global warming process.

Only
in recent years, scientists in the Western countries started
believing that this tree could be the source for providing
tremendous benefit.

Today,
researchers are saying that Neem could be called "a
wonder tree" and eventually expect it to benefit
everyone on the planet. This tree is expected to usher
in a new era in pest control, provide millions with inexpensive
medicines, cut down the rate of pollution growth, reduce
erosion, deforestation and control the global warming
process. This wonder tree has pesticide, germicidal and
medicinal properties, and is capable of solving many problems
facing mankind today. The wood is termite resistant and
is used for carpentry as well as construction work. These
trees grow quickly, thrive on marginal and poor soils,
and neutralize soil acidity with its alkaline leaves.

Therefore,
an increased commercial plantations and agroforestry involving
Neem can enhance the economical potential of this tree
with positive and large externalities for pesticides,
fertilizers, live stocks, dairying and other value-added
products

BOTANICAL
DESCRIPTION AND CULTIVATION

Native
to east India and Burma, it grows in much of Southeast
Asia and West Africa.

The
neem tree (Azadirachta indica) is a fast growing (up to
twenty feet in three years) tropical evergreen related
to mahogany. Outdoors, in locations where temperatures
don't drop much below freezing, it may reach up to 50
feet tall. It will grow where rainfall is as little as
18 inches per year and thrives in areas that experience
extreme heat of up to 120 degrees F. They are reported
to live for up to 200 years.

The
tree is often covered in delicate flowers in the early
summer. It has a semi-sweet, olive-sized fruit. The seed
inside is rich in oil with tremendous medicinal and botanical
properties. The oil is easily obtained by pressing the
kernels in a juicer. It generally begins bearing fruit
at three to five years, and can produce up to 110 lbs.
of fruit annually when mature.

Neem
is a tropical tree; it must be protected from hard freezes.
In northern climates it may be grown in pots with the
care and appearance of the more-common ficus tree. Neem
makes an ideal indoor plant because it grows well with
a minimum of maintenance. For optimum growth, Neem should
be placed near a sunny window during the winter and moved
outside during summer months. However, they will survive
indoors even if they don't receive any natural light at
all. Its blooms are small, white flowers with a very sweet,
jasmine-like scent. They are relatively heavy feeders,
responding to organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion,
bone meal and kelp with lush new growth.

Care
Few pests attack the Neem tree and most problems with
Neem are directly related to over watering. Several different
types of fungal diseases can cause die-back, and slugs
that thrive in soggy spaces will eat the bottom leaves
of small trees.

Health
and Diseases

Ulcers
Resolution of 80% of the cases. Drink one glass three
times a day of Neem leaf extract made by boiling 5g of
Neem leaves, 15g of brown olives (for taste) in 3 liters
of water for 20 minutes.

Gout
Elimination of the problem within one week. Drink one
glass three times a day of Neem leaf extract made by boiling
5g of Neem leaves in 2 liters of water for 20 minutes.

Diabetes
Effective at managing the disease and in some cases healing
after some time. Drink one glass a day of Neem leaf extract
made by boiling 10g of Neem leaves in 2 litters of water
for 20 minutes.

Pneumonia
Completely cured in 3 weeks. Drink one glass a day of
hot Neem leaf extract made by boiling 2g of Neem leaves
in one cup of water for 20 minutes. Chest related cases.
Clears the chest within 3 days. Drink one glass a day
of hot Neem leaf extract made by boiling 2g of Neem leaves
in one cup of water for 20 minutes.

Malaria
Cures the disease completely in one week, very good in
persistent cases. Drink one glass three times a day of
Neem leaf extract made by boiling 30g of Neem leaves in
3 liters of water for 20 minutes.

Malaria
is transmitted from an infected person to a non-infected
person by the bites of certain species of mosquito. The
insect bite injects gamete into the blood stream where
it travels to the kidney to mature. Neem can block the
development of the gamete in an infected person. This
not only prevents the infected person from developing
malaria but also stops the disease from spreading.

Neem
leaf extract substantially increases the state of oxidation
in red blood cells, preventing normal development of the
malaria plasmodia.

Some
westerners familiar with Neem often substitute an occasional
Neem leaf tea to drinking quinine on trips to malaria-infested
areas of Africa and India as a preventive measure. Neem
extracts tested by the Malaria Institute were found to
repel the mosquito that causes malaria for up to twelve
hours. Neem provides protection from not only mosquitoes
but also from biting flies, sand fleas and ticks. Because
of Neems proven effectiveness insect repellents
made with Neem are being used in malaria prone tropical
countries.

Heart
Disease:
High blood pressure, blood clots, high cholesterol levels
and arrhythmic heart action are major causes of heart
attack. Neem leaf extracts have been shown to reduce clotting,
lower blood pressure and cholesterol, slow rapid heartbeat,
and inhibit irregularities of the rhythms of the heart.
There are also reports that some compounds can produce
effects similar to mild sedatives reducing anxiety and
other emotional and physical states that can precipitate
heart attacks. This may be a calming effect similar to
that witnessed with other herbal teas or a psychological
result of physiological effects of blood vessel dilation
and lower blood pressure.

Hypertension
or High blood pressure:
The antihistamine properties of nimbidin in leaf extracts
cause blood vessels to dilate and may be responsible for
reducing blood pressure. Alcoholic extract of Neem leaf
(intravenous) produced a significant and immediate decrease
in blood pressure, which lasted for several hours. Another
Neem leaf extract, sodium nimbidinate, administered to
people with congestive cardiac failure acted successfully
as a diuretic.

Cholesterol:
Neem leaf extracts reduced cholesterol levels significantly
in recent studies. Alcoholic extract of Neem leaves reduced
serum cholesterol by about 30% beginning two hours after
administration and kept the level low for an additional
four hours until the test ended.

Psoriasis:
Neem oil is probably the best product currently available
for treating psoriasis. It moisturizes and protects the
skin while it helps heal the lesions, scaling and irritation.
Experiments and reports from patients with psoriasis have
shown taking Neem leaf orally combined with topical treatment
with Neem extracts and Neem seed oil appear to be at least
as effective as coal tar and cortisone in treating psoriasis.

Eczema:
The broad range of beneficial effects neem has on skin
makes it one of the better treatments for eczema (dermatitis).
Though neem oil is preferred because of the concentration
of active compounds, topical applications of even the
weaker leaf extracts have cured acute eczema.

Arthritis:
There have been numerous studies on the ability of extracts
of neem leaf to reduce the inflammation caused by arthritis.
The ailments can be autoimmune disorders, infections,
and the result of wear on the joints or simply inflammation.
Generally though it is the inflammation or the pain associated
with it that is treated regardless of the origin. Neem's
antibacterial properties can help kill infectious causes
while its inflammation reducing properties and pain-suppressing
properties can alleviate the symptoms.

Leaf
compounds have been shown to be more potent inhibitors
of prostaglandin than aspirin.

Limonoids
and catechin in the leaf and seed may provide additional
beneficial effects. Other possible explanations point
to an inhibition of the release of mediators of acute
inflammation.

Rheumatism:
The active constituents in neem leaves have outstanding
anti-inflammatory activity, comparable even to the well-known
modern drug phenyl butazone and cortisone. They relieve
pain by acting on the prostaglandin mechanism and significantly
reduce acute paw edema.

Diabetes:
Neem leaf is a traditional herb for treating diabetes
and has been scientifically proven effective in treating
and preventing diabetes. Diabetes is an incurable, chronic
metabolic disorder that develops when the pancreas can
no longer produce sufficient insulin. Blood sugar levels
rapidly elevate yet the body is unable to use the energy
contained in the sugar leading to weakness and eventually
unconsciousness. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness
in people ages 25 to 74, damages nerves, kidneys, the
heart and blood vessels and may result in the amputation
of limbs.

Oral
doses of Neem leaf extracts significantly reduced insulin
requirements for non-insulin dependent diabetes. Neem
oil has also proven effective and has been able to inhibit
increases in blood sugar levels by as much as 45% in test
animals.

The
Indian government has approved the sale by pharmaceutical
companies of Neem tablets for diabetics. (Some of these
preparations are really nothing more than powdered Neem
leaves.)

Cancer:
Researchers in India, Europe and Japan have now found
that polysaccharides and limonoids found in Neem bark,
leaves and seed oil reduced tumors and cancers and showed
effectiveness against lymphocytic leukemia. In several
patents issued in Japan hot water Neem bark extracts showed
remarkable effectiveness against several types of tumors.
Several of the extracts were equal to or better than the
standard anti- cancer agent against solid tumors. Another
researcher used an extract of Neem leaves to prevent the
adhesion of cancer cells to other cells in the body. Without
the ability to stick to other cells, cancers cannot spread
through the body and are more easily destroyed by the
body's own immune system or by other treatments. In general,
Neem is known for its ability to affect cancers. Injections
of Neem extract around tumors showed remarkable reduction
in size in just a few weeks.

Skin
Cancer
A number of reports have been made by patients that skin
cancers have disappeared after several months of daily
application of a Neem-based cream.

Digestive
Disorders
Neem is regularly taken to correct problems with the stomach
and bowels. Neem promotes a healthy digestive system by
protecting the stomach, aiding in elimination and removing
toxins and harmful bacteria.

Heartburn
and Indigestion:
They are effective because some Neem extracts reduce the
concentration of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Other
compounds with apparent prostaglandin inhibition capabilities
may also play a part in reducing gastric secretions. At
the onset of indigestion traditional Ayurvedic practice
is to drink a strong Neem tea made with five Neem leaves
along with 1/4 teaspoon each of ginger and baking soda.
The mixture is said to protect the stomach and reduce
the discomfort.

Peptic
and Duodenal Ulcers:
Neem is a generally accepted in the Ayurvedic medical
tradition as a therapy for ulcers and gastric discomfort.
People throughout the Indian subcontinent take Neem leaves
for relief of stomach problems of any sort. Scientific
validation of these practices is consistent in studies
of the effectiveness of Neem and Neem extracts for gastric
relief.

Compounds
in Neem have been proven to have anti-ulcerative effects.
Oral doses of Neem leaf extracts gave significant protection
against peptic ulcers, duodenal ulcers and enhanced the
healing process of gastric lesions. Nimbidin from seed
extracts taken orally prevented duodenal lesions and peptic
ulcers. They provided significant reductions in acid output
and peptic activity of gastric fluids. The effects were
most pronounced when doses were low (20 to 40 mg/kg) and
increased dosages actually reduced the effectiveness of
Neems anti-ulcerative effects. Neem seed extracts
also showed significant healing effects from this compound
for existing lesions. Similar compounds have been found
in leaf extracts in lesser concentrations.

Gastritis
Neem extracts reduce the concentration of acid in the
stomach and have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory
properties that can provide relief from the effects of
gastritis.

Nervous
Disorders:
One hour after taking aqueous leaf extracts -- or Neem
tea -- weak excitation and increased activity are seen,
while decreased activity and lower muscular tone occur
after five hours. Nimbidin has a mild suppressive effect
on the central nervous system. Neem leaf extracts produce
lower activity, respiratory rate and muscle tone passivity
as well as dose-dependent hypothermia. The active compounds
may be limonoids, because most seem to be able to pass
the blood-brain barrier.

Stress:
One of the most recent discoveries for Neem revealed that
extracts of Neem leaves have been able to reduce anxiety
and stress when ingested in small quantities. In an experiment
to see what, if any, effect Neem leaf extract had on anxiety
and stress fresh Neem leaves were crushed and the liquid
squeezed out to obtain a leaf extract. The extract was
then given orally to test animals that were placed in
two different standard stress tests and the behavior noted.
As controls and for comparison three main sets of animals
were used. One group received salt water to act as a base
control, another group received diazepam (Valium) and
another set received the Neem leaf extract. To determine
if Neem leaf extract worked differently at different amounts
the Neem extract group was subdivided into sets that received
ever-larger doses.

The
amazing part of the experiment isn't that Neem can reduce
anxiety. That is something that had been reported many
times before scientific experimentation finally quantified
it. The explanation for Neems anti-anxiety effect
may rest with its ability to increase the amount of serotonin
in the brain. The amazing part is that Neem extracts will
only work in small doses. This unique quality of Neem
could make Neem extract a safer alternative than drugs
currently used for stress that compound their effects
with higher doses up to a point where they can become
dangerous.

Wound
healing
Neem is a healing herb that is famous for its wound healing
properties. Cuts, scrapes and poison oak and ivy can be
salved with Neem oil lotions..

Other
Uses

Natural
Insect Repellent:
Neem has been used since antiquity as an insect repellent
for both people and food crops.

One
compound (salannin) found in Neem leaves, seeds and seed
oil is a safer but more effective insect repellent than
the widely used chemical ingredient called DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide)
currently found in most commercial repellents.

For
those seeking a safe alternative to potentially dangerous
synthetic repellents Neem offers an attractive alternative
for the following reasons:

Neem
oil is an excellent skin moisturizer while DEET is not
recommended for repeated application to the skin, around
the face or on the hands of small children.

Neem
oil is a natural vegetable oil while DEET is not recommended
to be sprayed on furniture, plastics, watch crystals,
leather and painted surfaces including automobiles.

DEET
may actually dissolve all synthetic fabrics but nylon.

Neem
oil has been used safely for centuries while DEET is a
synthetic chemical that has only been used for a short
time and may pose future unknown health risks.

Agriculture
As scientists scour rainforests in dangerous and inaccessible
areas of the world in search of useful plants, the neem
tree grows inconspicuously in the front yards of homes
and on college campuses throughout south Asia and Africa.

Neem's
"soft" pesticide is improving the lives of farmers
throughout the tropical range of the neem tree. Substituting
crude neem extracts for expensive chemical controls saves
both money and lives.

Seedlings
and educational programs give farmers the means and methods
for easily making a cheap, safe and effective product
that protects their crops from over 200 different insect
pests, including the desert locust.

Farmers
in Mexico and Haiti and shepherds in Australia have begun
switching to simple Neem-based sprays from the usual synthetic
chemical pest controls. This has allowed the farmers to
export mangos and other fruit to the United States without
the chemical residues that often stopped their shipments
at inspection stations. Neem-based sprays have similarly
allowed the shepherds in Australia to produce a pesticide-free
wool that is being sold to European buyers for a considerable
premium over the standard wool impregnated with chemical
pesticides.

Food
Storage:
Throughout the tropics much of the food harvested is lost
during storage. More affluent farmers can and do spray
their stored food crops with chemical pesticides to prevent
worms, beetles and other infestations. Neem offers the
impoverished farmers and even affluent farmers wanting
to replace pesticides a natural and inexpensive alternative.
A light coating of Neem oil protects stored food crops
for up to twenty months from all types of infestations
with no deterioration or loss of palatability.

Soil
Amendment - Neem Cake:
After the oil has been pressed from the seed kernels,
the remaining material is called "Neem cake."
This material has been used for many centuries throughout
India as a soil amendment. Experience has taught farmers
there that working the leftover Neem cake into the soil
of a garden produces larger, healthier plants that have
few problems with insect pests.

Several
studies were done to find out why plants grew better in
soils mixed with neem cake. The studies discovered that
Neem cake was richer in plant nutrients than manure, killed
damaging nematodes, promoted larger populations of earthworms,
helped keep nitrogen in the soil available for the plants,
and provided significant protection from insects. This
combination of effects provides an almost ideal growing
condition for the plants.

Plant
pest
By killing nematodes in the soil, a major plant pest is
eliminated. Nematodes suck the juices from the roots of
plants to the point where they are unable to supply sufficient
nutrients to the plant. The plants looks sickly, fail
to grow and may eventually die despite sufficient food,
water and care. On the other hand, by promoting larger
populations of earthworms, Neem cake helps keep the soil
loose so that the roots can more easily absorb water and
nutrients. Earthworms also enrich the soil by creating
readily absorbable nutrients as it feeds on decaying plant
material. Neem cake also reduces the nitrification rate
of the soil by suppressing nitrifying bacteria such as
nitrosomonas and nitrobacter bacteria. This reduces the
need for applications of external nutrients. Some studies
have shown that mixing Neem cake with regularly scheduled
applications of manure can almost double crop yield over
manure alone.

Disposable
toothbrush
Neem twigs are used daily by millions in Bangladesh, India
and Pakistan as disposable toothbrushes. Neem toothpastes
and powders are reputed as effective dentrifice products.
Extracts of Neem bark are used in some toothpastes and
mouthwashes singly or in combination with other herbal
extracts. The inhibiting effect of aqueous Neem extract
upon bacterial properties influencing plaque formation
has recently been confirmed.

Worm
killers
Cattle leaf supplements containing Neem leaf powder are
worm killers. Creams containing Neem oil is used for animal
wound addressing and also act as fly and mosquito repellents.
In Kenya, rural farming households have found in Neem
an inexpensive way to protect the native chicken from
the dreaded New Castle virus disease. Neem seed powder
or cake mixed in water and provided for drinking or chicken
force fed with Neem cake during epidemic survived, while
other died.

Soap
The most common use of Neem oil is for soap production
for economical reasons.
If properly used for soap production to harness its general
hygiene properties, the resulted product proved to be
of great health use. Such medicated soaps with Neem odor
are proved to have very effective anti-germ properties.

Beauty
aid
Neem is also becoming a popular beauty aid. Few companies
are using Neem oil and leaves for production of cosmetics
like facial creams, nail polishes, nail oils, shampoos
and conditioners etc.

Food
Because of the fear of toxic residues in food products
associated with the use of chemical pesticides, there
is a growing importance of plant origin, which does not
leave any residue. Though many plant chemicals have been
reported to be suitable for this, Neem is the only plant
from which the bio-pesticides are commercially manufactured,
found effective, eco-friendly and acceptable to the farmers.
Neem pesticides are now increasingly used in India on
crops like cotton, vegetables, fruit trees, coffee, tea,
rice and pigeon pea.

In
conclusion
Increased commercial plantations and agro-forestry involving
Neem can enhance the economical potential of this tree
with positive and large externalities for pesticides,
fertilizers, livestock, dairying and other value-added
products

ThymeThyme is zaatar in Arabic.
Thyme is most popularly used as one of the main ingredients
in the spice mix named after it - Zaatar. This mixed zaatar
is actually a mix of sumac berries and zataar, however,
plain zaatar is also readily available in the Middle East
and has many uses that you may not have thought about.

Thyme
is a vermifuge and daily consumption of it helps keep
worms and other parasites from dwelling in your body.
You can eat or drink the tea for this purpose. Eating
mixed zaatar on a daily basis may not be a
bad idea! Especially if you live in a place where you
are unsure of water quality or cleanliness.

Eating
Zaatar on bread helps you digest the heaviness of the
bread and prevents many digestive and allergic reactions
related to bread.

A
Hadith related by Ibn al-Juzi states that They fumigated
their houses with thyme and frankincense. this is
because thyme is a fantastic anti-fungal, anti-botic,
anti-septic, and anti-microbial agent. It also repels
insects. So if you have any illness in the house or any
problem spots in your house or yard - think of thyme.
A cleverly placed thyme bush is a good addition to any
garden.

Drinking
the green leafy tea also has many health benefits. A few
cups a day will ease menstrual cramps as well as relieve
the tenseness and moodiness that often accompanies PMS
(or the MS itself). Thyme tea is also helpful
for stomach problems as well as coughs and fever.

Thyme
tea is a wonderfully pleasant tea for childrens
coughs as they delight in the flavor. It is also said
to alleviate whooping cough and nightmares. It helps in
the elimination of phlegm, relieves any pain that may
accompany the illness and calms a childs nerves.

You
can also use it for a mild sore throat (for a severe sore
throat spray a couple drops of the essential oil mixed
with water or herbal tea directly on your throat) and
post nasal drip.